What Is An Audio Interface and Do I Need One?

The best way I can think of to describe and audio interface is a “go between.” It speaks the language of both your computer and the microphone. To be more precise let me give you a more technical definition. 

Audio interfaces convert microphone and instrument signals into a format your computer and software recognize. The interface also routes audio from your computer out to your headphones and studio monitors. They usually connect to your computer through USB cables, though some use Thunderbolt, Firewire, or even ethernet. Interfaces range in price from under $100 to several thousand dollars. Paying more for an interface doesn't always guarantee you better quality. Most of the affordable interfaces have have basic functionality but great sound.

The advantages of an audio interface:

1. Use any XLR microphone
2. More than one microphone at a time (USB mics allow only one mic to connect)
3. The headphone output in a USB interface will sound better and louder than the headphone out of a USB mic or laptop ‘phone jack
4. Most provide inputs for guitar/bass/keyboards in addition to mics
5. Interfaces provide volume control for at least one pair of speakers and some for multiple headphone and speaker outputs.

Audio interfaces are a very useful if not a necessary tool when doing voice over. Should you begin using one? The answer is YES! The pros swear buy them and you should too.